Yucca House National Monument may not be on everyone’s travel list, but for those curious adventurers and history buffs, it offers a truly unique experience. It’s one of the least visited National Monuments in both Colorado and the entire United States, making it a hidden gem that’s practically yours to explore.
Discover the Rich History
Nestled in Southwest Colorado, Yucca House preserves the remnants of an Ancestral Puebloan community that thrived between 1150 and 1300 CE. Despite its unassuming size, the monument is one of the region’s largest archaeological sites. The main structure, a vast rectangular pueblo, boasts over 600 rooms constructed from sandstone blocks and adobe mortar. Abandoned in the late 13th century for reasons still unknown, this site offers a fascinating glimpse into a bygone era.
President Woodrow Wilson officially designated Yucca House as a National Monument in 1919, and remarkably, little has changed since then. Some secrets lie within the ruins, untouched and awaiting your discovery.
When to Visit
Yucca House is open year-round, 24 hours a day. The ideal times to visit are from April to October, when the weather is most pleasant and the days are longer. Be cautious if you visit after rain, as the road and the site can get muddy. Winters pose a challenge with short days and potentially snow-covered roads, so proceed with caution and check the weather if you plan a winter visit.
Exploring the Site
Although small and somewhat limited in exploration options, Yucca House still has notable features to see. Upon arrival, you’ll enter a gated area. To your left, you’ll find the remnants of an eight-room pueblo, with some visible wall structures. On the right is another mound, which once housed a vast pueblo with an estimated 600 rooms and over 100 kivas, including a great kiva. Stones from the former dwellings are scattered across this mound.
Where to Stay
There are no accommodations within Yucca House National Monument. Options nearby include:
– Cortez: Offers a variety of hotels including the friendly and quirky Retro Inn, the clean and reliable Holiday Inn, and several RV parks like La Mesa RV Park and RJourney Cortez RV Park with comprehensive amenities.
– Ute Mountain Casino Hotel: Located about 10 minutes from the site, offers a larger staying option.
Camping enthusiasts can choose from:
– Mcphee Recreation Complex: North of Cortez, with over 50 sites.
– Bright Star Campground: Seasonal, located southeast of Cortez.
– Uravan Ballpark Campground: Primitive camping experience on the Ute Mountain Reservation.
Essential Information
Yucca House is accessed via a dirt road off private land, so be considerate of the residents and their property. There are no visitor services or fees, but signing the visitor book is recommended. Note that no passport stamp is available on-site; you can obtain it at Hovenweep National Monument.
Getting There
Reaching Yucca House is straightforward. From Cortez, head west/south on US-160 towards the Ute Mountain Reservation. After passing the Cortez Municipal Airport, continue for another 4 miles. Turn right on County Road B, and then after about 3/4 of a mile, turn right again on County Road 20.5. Continue for approximately 1.5 miles until you see a white house on your right. The monument is on the left. Park near the site and avoid blocking the road.
Tips for a Smooth Visit
– Avoid visiting too early or late to respect the nearby residents.
– Park thoughtfully to avoid obstructing the road.
– Close gates after entering and leaving.
– There are no rangers or services, so ensure you leave the site as you found it.
– Do not climb on mounds or walls and refrain from taking artifacts.
– Be mindful of cows on the road.
Further Adventures You Might Enjoy
– Mesa Verde National Park
– Denver to Moab Road Trips
– Aztec Ruins National Monument: Visitor’s Guide
– Best Things to Do in Bryce Canyon National Park
– Hiking the Grand Wash Trail – Capitol Reef National Park
Explore Yucca House National Monument, and uncover a small but fascinating piece of America’s ancient history, all while enjoying a quiet, nearly undisturbed archaeological site.